Mr Morley, 37, is charged with causing unnecessary suffering to 18 separate dogs (failing to provide vet care for a variety of conditions) contrary to Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act and one offence of failing to meet the welfare needs of 42 dogs by failing to provide a suitable environment contrary to Section 9 of the act.

Mr Parkin, 55, is charged with causing unnecessary suffering to a horse by failing to ensure it received appropriate foot care contrary to Section 4 of the act, causing unnecessary suffering to three horses by failing to provide a suitable environment contrary to Section 4 of the act, failing to provide a suitable environment for 21 horses contrary to Section 9 of the act, causing unnecessary suffering to eight goats by failing to treat their overgrown feet contrary to Section 4 of the act and failing to prevent the feet of a further seven goats from becoming overgrown contrary to Section 9 of the act.

Edward Smith, 61, Patrick Smith, 58, and Julie Smith, 59, are all charged with all of the above offences, a total of 32 offences each.

The case was adjourned to July 10 at 2pm at Watford Magistrates’ Court for a preliminary hearing.